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Edwards and Minnesota’s rough night

Minnesota’s numbers told the story of a team that never found its rhythm: the starters combined to shoot just 18-for-59 from the fielda clear sign of a group that struggled badly when the pressure peaked.

Injuries also played a major role. Edwards battled through the entire series after suffering a knee injury in the first round, while the absence of Donte DiVincenzo removed an important offensive weapon, especially against San Antonio’s aggressive defenses and constant traps.

Edwards admitted as much after the game:

The gesture that sparked debate

Late in the fourth quarter, with the game essentially over, Edwards made a gesture that caught plenty of attention: he walked over to the Spurs bench to shake hands and congratulate the opposition with roughly eight minutes still left on the clock.

He later explained his reasoning:

The moment quickly divided opinions, especially because the game was technically still ongoing.

Former NBA player Udonis Haslem was among those who criticized Edwards’ decision:

Now comes a critical offseason for Minnesota

With the playoff exit official, attention now shifts entirely toward the future. Minnesota must figure out whether this core can truly compete in an increasingly brutal Western Conference filled with stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokicand Luka Doncicwhile several young teams continue to rise.

After the game, Edwards balanced confidence in the roster with an honest acknowledgment of its flaws.

On one hand:

On the other, a much heavier admission:

And when asked what the team needs to take the next step, his answer was direct:

Head coach Chris Finch summed up Minnesota’s situation in a single sentence:

Right now, Minnesota still seems stuck somewhere in between – without a clear identity and without a definitive direction forward.